Politics

Bethel City Council recognized two men whose work over the years made a positive difference in the community and the region: David Berlin and David Trantham Jr.

Four familiar faces will keep their seats on the Calista Board of Directors: Margaret Pohjola from Chuathbaluk, Willie Kasayulie from Akiachak, Earl D. Samuelson Sr. from Napaskiak, and Nick P. Andrew Jr. 

Friday, June 19 was supposed to be payday for City of Bethel employees, but no one received their checks. Miscommunication in the finance department resulted in the city’s employees receiving their paychecks three days late, on June 22. In response, at the regular meeting on June 23, the city council directed the administration to bring in outside help.  

After opening up the potential for a by-mail election this October, the Bethel City Council is considering two other voting options at its June 23 regular meeting: early voting and electronic voting.

On June 9, Bethel City Council took action to allow for by-mail elections, passed a budget, and made plans to use the city’s $8.4 million of CARES Act Funding.

In its June 9 meeting, Bethel City Council will be preparing to spend $8.4 million in federal CARES Act funding, looking at ways to conduct an election during the COVID-19 pandemic, and considering action on next year’s budget.

The council will have to formally accept CARES Act funding in order for the city to receive the money. City Manager Vincenzo "Vinny" Corazza is proposing a partnership with Bethel Community Services Foundation to plan and execute how the $8.4 million gets spent. The money can only be used for COVID-19-related expenditures.